Three pull papers for Hudson School Committee race

The School Committee race has attracted three political newcomers for two open seats in the spring election.

Jeff Malachowski/Daily News staff

The School Committee race has attracted three political newcomers for two open seats in the spring election.

After little activity in the first month nomination papers were available, Jennifer O'Brien, Michael DiBona and George Calnan, a former school principal, have pulled papers within the last 10 days. Calnan is the only candidate to return his papers.

School Committee Chairman Duane Searles recently announced that he will not run again this year due to personal reasons. The other incumbent, Sarah Maston, had not pulled papers as of yesterday afternoon and could not be reached for comment.

DiBona said he decided to run to give back to the community and school district.

"I think the school system is the core of the town," DiBona said, and he hopes to help administrators improve it.

Calnan, a 43-year employee of the School Department as a teacher and administrator, said his experience and knowledge of the school system would help the School Committee and Superintendent Kevin Lyons.

Calnan was the principal at Forest Avenue School for 25 years, then at Farley Elementary School for seven years. He was also the interim principal of JFK Middle School during the 2008-2009 school year before retiring.

"I felt this was an opportunity to give back to the community," Calnan said. "I think I have a lot of knowledge to offer the committee and Dr. Lyons."

O'Brien, a parent of a kindergartner and fourth-grader at Mulready Elementary School, said she became interested in running after hearing Lyons speak about the district and the two open seats at a recent parents meeting.

"I thought this was a better opportunity to have more responsibility to all kids," said O'Brien, vice president of the Mulready parent-teacher organization. "It's all very exciting."

Residents interested in running for town offices can pick up nomination papers at the town clerk's office. The papers must be returned with 50 signatures of registered voters by March 21. The election is May 9.

(Jeff Malachowski can be reached at 508-490-7466 or jmalacho@cnc.com.)

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